Ultimate Cheesy Beef Pasta Bake
A warm, bubbly, and irresistibly cheesy pasta casserole loaded with seasoned ground beef, rich marinara sauce, and layers of melted mozzarella and cheddar. This easy comfort-food dinner is perfect for busy weeknights, family gatherings, or whenever you’re craving something hearty and satisfying!
Ingredients
1 lb (450 g) ground beef
2 cups pasta (penne, rotini, or rigatoni)
2 cups marinara sauce
2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1/2 onion, diced
2 garlic cloves, minced
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
1/2 teaspoon paprika
Salt and black pepper, to taste
Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions
Cook the Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the pasta until just al dente. Drain and set aside.
Prepare the Beef Sauce
In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add diced onion and cook until soft. Stir in garlic and cook for 1 minute. Add the ground beef and cook until browned. Drain excess fat if needed.
Season and Simmer
Stir in marinara sauce, Italian seasoning, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Let the sauce simmer for 5 minutes to develop flavor.
Combine Everything
Add the cooked pasta to the beef sauce and mix well. Stir in half of the mozzarella cheese and half of the cheddar cheese.
Bake Until Golden
Transfer the mixture to a greased baking dish. Top with the remaining cheeses. Bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 20–25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and golden.
Serve & Enjoy
Garnish with fresh parsley and serve hot with garlic bread or a fresh salad.
Helpful Tips
Add mushrooms, bell peppers, or spinach for extra flavor and texture.
For a spicy kick, sprinkle in red chili flakes.
Use freshly grated cheese for the creamiest melt.
Every bite is rich, cheesy, and packed with comforting homemade flavor — a guaranteed family favorite!
